Lot 445: George Washington’s Life Guard

Lot 445: Three Revolutionary War–dated one-page DSs concerning Henry Wakelee, a member of Washington's guard: a manuscript certification of his service, signed by three selectmen and a justice of the peace, March 6, 1783, in full: "This may certifie that Henry Wakelee a Corpl in Collo Warners Regiment was in actual service in Jan'y 1780 and is now In his Excellency General Washingtons life guard"; and two partly-printed documents signed by Wakelee, both March 18, 1783, confirming that he received payment for balances due. In fine condition, with expected document wear and light toning. On March 11, 1776, Washington ordered the commanding officers in the Continental Army to nominate four men of high character from their regiments that would be selected from in order to form his personal guard. It went by several monikers, including 'His Excellency's Guard,' 'The Washington Life Guard,' and 'Washington's Body Guard.' An uncommon grouping on an interesting subject.
RR Auction's Fine Autographs and Artifacts Auction 458
Wednesday, 12th August 2015
Estimate: $400-600